ATHENS — Nearly two years after a fire gutted Oconee Street UMC, church members concluded their Jan. 11 service in their new sanctuary, slated for completion in spring. Before sheet rock and insulation is installed, church attendees wrote prayers on the outer sanctuary walls and concluded the service with singing and prayer. “In a couple of weeks these walls will be closed up, but our prayers will be there, surrounding our congregation and congregations to follow us as we worship God together in the years to come,” said Pastor Lisa Caine.

The dedication of the new sanctuary at 595 Oconee Street will be held June 14, 2014.